Magistrate Extends Compliance Deadline for Carlton McDonald's Property Violations

During a recent Ocala Special Magistrate meeting, significant developments emerged regarding property compliance issues affecting local residents. The magistrate approved an extension for compliance deadlines related to property violations, shifting the original deadline from September 18, 2025, to November 20, 2025. This decision aims to provide the property owner, Carlton McDonald, with additional time to address code violations on his property.

McDonald, who has lived on the property for nearly 40 years, shared his personal circumstances, including recent family changes and health challenges. He expressed his intention to build a small structure on the land but faced obstacles due to code enforcement regulations. The magistrate emphasized the importance of clearing the property of large items that could pose safety hazards, urging McDonald to meet the new deadline to avoid accruing daily fines.

The magistrate's ruling included a finding of violations of specific city codes and mandated that the city costs of $244.21 be included in the order. The magistrate also noted that any future violations would be classified as repeat offenses, potentially leading to further legal actions.

This extension reflects the city's commitment to balancing enforcement of property codes with understanding the personal circumstances of residents. The outcome of this case highlights the ongoing efforts to maintain community safety while providing support to individuals facing challenges in compliance.